Harris Social Impact Fellowship 2027/28 | University of Chicago

Applications are open for the Harris Social Impact Fellowship 2027-2028. The University of Chicago Harris School designed this fellowship. It targets technically skilled recent graduates and professionals. Fellows apply data and research skills to social challenges. The program runs eleven months, combining coursework and applied research. Approximately fifteen fellows join this highly selective cohort.

Program Snapshot

• Host Institution: University of Chicago, Hyde Park campus
• Duration: 11 months, July 2027 through June 2028
• Cohort Size: Approximately 15 fellows
• Format: Full-time, in-person
• Application Deadline: October 19, 2026

Financial Benefits

• $75,000 stipend for living and healthcare expenses
• $21,000 to fully cover the academic credential
• Comprehensive funding removes financial barriers entirely

Program Structure

• Eight weeks of intensive academic coursework first
• Nine months of applied learning at research centers
• A final capstone project addressing real-world challenges
• Mentorship, career coaching, and leadership development throughout

Curriculum Focus Areas

• Research methods and causal inference techniques
• Economic analysis and public finance fundamentals
• Analytical politics and governance structures
• Data analytics, machine learning, and AI applications

Applied Learning Placements

• Behavioral Insights and Parenting Lab research projects
• Urban Labs focused on crime, energy, and health equity
• Mansueto Institute work on urban policy and data journalism

Who Can Apply

• Recent graduates and early-career professionals
• Strong technical or quantitative background required
• No prior policy experience necessary
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
• University of Chicago cannot sponsor visas for this program

Required Materials

• A motivation statement, approximately 300 words
• A one-page technical experience statement
• One letter of recommendation

How to Apply

Submit your application through Harris School’s official portal.

Click Here to Apply

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